George Eliot was the pen name of Mary Ann Evans, an English novelist, essayist, and translator who was one of the leading literary figures of the 19th century. Born in Warwickshire, England in 1819, Eliot rose to prominence with her first novel, “Adam Bede” (1859), which was widely praised for its realism, its psychological depth, and its compassionate treatment of ordinary people. She went on to write several more novels, including “Middlemarch” (1871-72), which is widely considered her masterpiece, and is known for its insightful examination of English society and its complex, memorable characters. Throughout her career, Eliot was known for her humanistic philosophy, her commitment to social reform, and her pioneering approach to the novel as a form of serious literature. Despite facing numerous obstacles and prejudices, including gender bias and religious discrimination, she remained a steadfast voice for progress and equality, and her works continue to be celebrated for their insight, their artistry, and their enduring relevance to the human experience.
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